Celebrating the Mentors: Elevating Pool Industry Excellence
In an exciting initiative, the Talking Pools Podcast has unveiled the Top 10 finalists for its first-ever Mentor of the Year Award. This accolade honors the unsung champions of the swimming pool and spa industry—those who are instrumental in skill-building, personal growth, and professional mentorship. In a field often confronted by technician shortages and generational shifts, these dedicated mentors keep the spirit of learning and professionalism robust.
Selected from nearly 70 nominations nationwide, these finalists embody the true essence of mentorship in the trades, reinforcing the foundation of the industry by transmitting vital knowledge and passion. PoolRepair.fyi recognizes that mentorship greatly contributes to a proactive and progressive pool community, ensuring sustained quality and service excellence across the board.
A Memorable Surprise Reveal
In a novel approach, the Talking Pools Podcast will execute an unexpected, on-location reveal this November 2025. One exceptional finalist will receive a custom championship belt presented by Rudy Stankowitz in a moving moment captured by a live camera crew. This authentic surprise will be documented in a special video episode, shared widely across the podcast’s digital and social media platforms.
“This isn’t your typical ceremony—it’s about spotlighting those quiet heroes who consistently make a life-changing difference,” shared Rudy Stankowitz, echoing a sentiment well understood by PoolRepair.fyi readers. “These mentors play a crucial role in strengthening our industry by investing in others and leading by example.”
2025 Mentor of the Year Finalists
The finalists, drawn from a diverse array of roles and regions, have proven their unwavering commitment to nurturing talent and fostering community connections. These ten individuals highlight the importance of mentorship in ensuring the continuous evolution and professionalism of the pool industry.
The honorees, representing various parts of the United States, stand as testaments to the dedication required in guiding fellow professionals: Laci Davis of Hudson, FL; Maddy Vandiver of Atlanta, GA; Que Hales of Tucson, AZ; Ron DeLoux of La Mesa, CA; Shannon D. Wilson of Glen Allen, VA; Tim Bolden of Marietta, GA; Rich Gallo of Los Angeles, CA; John Poma of Lakeland, FL; Kevin Post of Evergreen, CO; and Greg Beard of Garden Grove, CA.
Sponsors Lavish Support on Mentorship
The success of the Mentor of the Year Award hinges on the generous backing of industry-leading companies who firmly believe that mentorship is the key to lasting success. Title Sponsor Blueray XL enthusiastically supports this vision, emphasizing the transformational power of consistent mentorship in strengthening poolside skills and knowledge.
LaMotte Company and Revdup Apparel, as Gold Sponsors, highlight the invaluable exchange of wisdom that mentorship facilitates. “Mentorship strengthens our industry by guiding new professionals to uphold high standards,” stated Michael P. Smith of LaMotte, a sentiment mirrored by Don Douglas of Revdup Apparel, emphasizing the role of future leaders in driving community excellence.
Join the Celebration
The industry media is invited to witness this special award ceremony in November 2025, capturing the impactful stories of mentor-driven achievements. Rudy Stankowitz will provide access details to those interested in covering the event, which promises exclusive behind-the-scenes content available on various social media channels.
Continuing to inspire and educate through its daily broadcasts, the Talking Pools Podcast remains a vibrant platform for pool service professionals and industry enthusiasts alike, hosted by a team of knowledgeable and passionate individuals. Be sure to tune into this exciting storytelling of pool community heroes and learn more about the innovative strides being made within the industry at PoolRepair.fyi.
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